What is a GS-9?
Essentially, the Federal government's pay table is based on 15 grades with 10 steps within each grade. The GS-9 grade level represents approximately the mid-way point on the pay tables. Visit the website at http://www.opm.gov/oca/08tables/index.asp for further description.
What type of training activities are included in the Program?
Upon acceptance in to the Program, the Emerging Leaders Program, interns participate in a three-day orientation to the Department of Health and Human Services. The program also requires that interns participate in six (6), three-day leadership training events over the two years of the program. The first year of the program will introduce Emerging Leaders to a modified version of the HHS Competency model. Throughout these events, interns will hear from both internal speakers from the different Operating Divisions as well as external leadership presenters. The Leadership training events are also filled with interactive sessions and facilitator led group activities which focus on the HHS Competency model. There are also instruction blocks devoted to individual and work life issues, interpersonal/communal issues, project management, leadership and business orientation issues.
Will I have a mentor?
HHS believes strongly in the mentoring relationship. Upon acceptance to the program, interns will be assigned a peer mentor to assist in the transition in to the Department of Health and Human Services. After six months, the Emerging Leaders Program Operating Division (OPDIV) Coordinators will work with program participants to identify one of our professional staff members to serve as a permanent mentor. Both mentoring relationships play a key role in each Emerging Leader's career development, providing guidance, advice and support. Also, the mentor serves as a resource for rotational opportunities. Perhaps the most important role of the mentor is providing a link to the wider network of Department management.
What rotations can I expect?
The program consist of two years broken down in the following manner: (1) 6 month rotation in home Operating Division, (4) 90 day rotations in Operating Divisions of your choice, (1) final 6 month rotation in home Operating Division. Each Emerging Leader will participate in 4 rotational assignments outside of their home Operating Division. Assignments will be 90 days each. Rotations are based on career paths and will be available throughout the Department.
Is the Emerging Leaders Program a permanent appointment within
the Federal Government?
No. The Emerging Leaders Program is a 2-year accepted service
appointment. Once the Emerging Leader successfully completes the program, HHS
may non-competitively convert the participant to a competitive appointment and
promote up to the GS-12 level without further competition.
Will interviews be held?
Yes, applicants who rank at the top of our screening process will be
invited to the HHS headquarters for an interview. Interviews will be held in
person in March-April timeframe; there will be no telephone interviews.
Will there be a program orientation?
A 3-day orientation is planned to include an introduction to the
Department and all of its Operating and Staff Divisions, an introduction to how
the Federal government works, an understanding of participants' strengths and
areas for improvement, an understanding of the unique aspects of public
service, e.g., ethics, accountability, values, decision-making, etc.
Will I be eligible for promotions?
Yes, Emerging Leaders are eligible for annual promotions to the GS-11
or 12 levels, based on satisfactory performance.
The federal government is an equal opportunity employer.
Last revised:
December 1, 2008
